1 Corinthians 1:17-18

17 Christ didn’t send me to baptize but to preach the good news. And Christ didn’t send me to preach the good news with clever words so that Christ’s cross won’t be emptied of its meaning.18 The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are being destroyed. But it is the power of God for those of us who are being saved.

Paul understands his primary call to be that of proclamation.
Paul’s conversion came in a flash of light, with Jesus himself
speaking to Paul. The story involved visions, blindness, and
healing. (Read Acts 9.) Most of us do not experience God’s call
on our lives in quite so flashy a...

God, may I face my fears and pursue your calling, knowing your power is at work in me. Amen.

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The image of light figures in three of the texts. Light not only illumines but brings a changed situation. The psalmist’s confession links light with salvation. The Gospel lesson expresses deliverance in terms of the nearness of God’s reign, which overcomes diseases and distortions. Light permits well-being. Light is the mode of God’s presence.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

• Read Isaiah 9:1-4. When has God called you out of the darkness of an old habit, a familiar circumstance, into the light of new opportunity for ministry?
• Read Psalm 27:1, 4-9. Do you feel more comfortable talking with God about your joys or your pains? Is there need for more openness in either?
• Read 1 Corinthians 1:10-18. In your faith community, when have members found themselves at odds over priorities of no eternal value?
• Read Matthew 4:12-23. Put yourself into the story. What do you hear, see, feel, or smell? How have you answered the call of Jesus?